James F. (Jim) Boyd was raised on a livestock and grain farm near Arnett, Okla. He earned his bachelor’s degree in animal science from Oklahoma State University. After graduation he worked for and eventually managed several cattle operations before accepting a position with the AHA in 1972 as a fieldman serving west Texas and New Mexico.

Upon his retirement in December 2003, Jim had dedicated more than 30 years to promoting the Hereford breed and doing all he could to support, encourage and get the highest bid for each lot.

“Jim had the uncanny ability to work with diverse breeders and make them feel good about being in the business,” says Craig Huffhines, AHA executive vice president. “The eternal optimist, Jim was one of the most positive promoters of the Hereford breed. His relationships were strong with the managers of some of the largest, most historic ranches in the country, yet he would take the time to help a new breeder or a youngster coming up through the youth program.”

John Dudley of Dudley Bros., Comanche, Texas, wrote in his letter to the AHA Board about Jim’s nomination, “I am happy to offer my support of his nomination. Certainly Mr. Boyd is the grand example of the ‘Old Guard’ and very deserving of this recognition.”

Jim was the Fort Worth National Show honoree in 2004 and the Livestock Marketing Association’s Marketer of the Year at the 2004 National Western Stock Show in Denver. He was also awarded the title “Friend of Texas Hereford Association” in 2012.